[Jim-Iowa]

You all did so well on the last question I would like input on this one.
I have a few bucks burning a hole in my pocket(it's getting hot).
I have a Dremel Flexshaft (limited to 1/8" & 3/32 burs) and a handheld dremel. I am debating between a larger Flex Shaft and a micromotor.
My primary interest is songbird carving( but those things have a way of getting sidetracked so can't rule out larger work).
What's your thoughts as to which you would get first if you could only have one?

[Doug Ridley]

I can't imagine doing without either but if my primary interest was songbird carving I would get the micromotor. You can use the bandsaw and Dremel to get the shape close or even the micromotor if you purchase a couple of Typhoon bits with 3/32" shafts. The micromotor will give you the ability to do so many things so easily. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Doug

[Callynne]

Jim, I agree with Doug, go for the MicroMotor first, if you can pick only one. It it's a large sum burning the hole....get both for sure! I started with the Dremel, it was good but nothing beats a 'real' FlexShaft machine for hogging off wood (and reciprocating carving too!).

There's just so much more horse power, you can do so much more and much more quickly. You can do some detail with the FlexShaft, but nothing like what you can accomplish with the MicroMotors. I have both the RAM and the MasterCarver Combo (micromotor and woodburner combination machine) because I never want to be without a MicroMotor ever. Wanted a backup just in case....I tend to be a little hard on my equipment!! Deborah

[falconer]

I have to go along with Doug on this one. The micromotor would be your best bet when doing song birds or "miniatures". I currently use a Brasseler which has two handpeice ports. I normally have a 1/32 and 1/8 that way I don't have to change bits that often.


Welcome to Sierra Creek Studios

[Hugh P.]

Well got to jump in here, grin. For my preference, the Gesswein heavy duty, 30,000 rpm model. Is a real work horse. and will stand the hogging of wood on a song bird. The lighter units although less expensive, tend to kick out if you put too much pressure on them. I have the Foredom Micro Motor, and it is fine for detailing and light removal of wood a good unit.

[susieq]

bird carving = lots of detail carving that only a good micromotor will do...
Don't know what you planned to spend but for $300 you can get a Master carver brand micromotor and for the price, they are terrific. I would go ahead and invest in the actuall 3/32 collet though. It comes with a 1/8 collet and an adapter for 3/32, which slides down inside the 1/8 collet. I didn't care for that set up but otherwise it's a great unit. Runs 50,000 rpms, high torque, all of the qualities of a much more expensive unit. For me, speed matters. Higher rpms do a lot more work than the lower rmps.

But, micros are not for hogging wood. They are only a detail carver. Good luck with your final choice......let us know how it works out for you.

[Bill]

The MicroMotor would be my choice.
I have NSK's wouldn't be without them, use 3/32 or 1/8 bits, I have never
had the least bit of trouble with them and have been using them solid for
the past 8 years.
Bill

[Hugh P.]

Susie, if you try the Gessweing Micro Motor, 30,000, HD, you will find that they Hog wood very very well. Heavy hand piece, and surprising power. You bear down, and it will speed up, not slow down. I would compare it to a governor on an engine. No kidding. I'll be sanding with it, and put a little more pressure where there is a rough spot, and it will increase its RPM. If you get an opportunity, try it.

[Jim-Iowa]

Any comments on the Optima 2 or Ultima(combo burner/micromotor)? The difference in price between the Optima 2 & the Ultima temps me to try the Ultima.
I have a good Navasink burner(don't think their made anymore?) and a backup burner might be a good idea?

[susieq]

Jim, had you seen the Master Carver combo micromotor/burner? I think it is just a little more than the micro unit by itself. One power sourse that both the burning pen and the micromotor hand piece plug into.

I have just been real impressed with the micromotor that I got with them, so impressed that I bought a second handpiece (which I plug into my Foredom power source since they are interchangable)

I don't know anything about Optima but there are a few folks on here who do use them and love them. I would just look at the rmps of both before making a final choice.